Greek · Strong's G5293
ὑποτάσσω
hypotássō (hoo-po-TAS-so)
verb
To subordinate or arrange under, often used in a militaristic sense; reflexively, to obey or submit to authority.
The Greek verb *hypotassō* is a compound of *hypo*, meaning "under," and *tassō*, meaning "to arrange" or "to order." Thus, its core meaning is to arrange one thing under another, to subordinate. This primary sense can be seen in various contexts, from the literal arrangement of troops in an army to the metaphorical submission of one entity to another. The word carries the nuance of an orderly and deliberate placement, not necessarily one of inferiority in essence, but of assigned position and function within a hierarchy. It implies a recognition of authority and a willingness to operate within established boundaries. The semantic range extends from divine authority over creation, to human governmental authority, to social and familial roles, and even to the spiritual realm concerning demonic forces. The concept of submission, therefore, is not always passive acceptance but often an active choice to align with a superior will or order, whether that order is righteous or imposed. This term is often employed in the New Testament to describe human response to God, to governing powers, and in various relational dynamics within the Christian community. A significant theological emphasis is placed on the voluntary nature of this submission, particularly in ethical contexts related to Christian conduct.
Common English renderings
- be subject
- put under
- subdue
- submit
- be obedient
Key verses
"Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the powers that be are ordained of God."
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"Put them in mind to be in subjection to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready unto every good work,"
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"Furthermore, we had the fathers of our flesh to chasten us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?"
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"And when all things have been subjected unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subjected to him that did subject all things unto him, that God may be all in all."
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"Thou didst put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he subjected all things unto him, he left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we see not yet all things subjected to him."
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